How to look expensive (without spending big)
Plus: Have a style dilemma? Ask Lisa about it below
Given the clobbering most of us have had from interest rates, inflation and other irritating impediments to shopping at Prada (welcome to 2024), it’s probably a good idea to remind ourselves how to get the best from the high street. Skill up, I say. There is much dross out there, but gems too. Annabel Hodin, one of chicest personal stylists I know, always looks a million dollars and dresses mainly from Zara and, yes, Primark.
Certain colour combinations at different times of the year look more sophisticated than others.
In winter light, browns, creams, olives, brighter shades of green, French navy, cherry reds and all shades of yellow look good worked in with your favourite navy, black or grey pieces. Choosing the best shades for your complexion makes a huge difference to how ‘bespoke’ an outfit looks.
If you’re paying less than ￡100 for outerwear that isn’t nylon quilted, go for something textured like a teddy coat that won’t show bobbles. For a bit more money, Cos’s responsible wool tobacco-coloured coat is a classy frugal buy. An oversized scarf looks modern, adds colour and helps change the proportions of your outfit.
Size up rather than down. Too-tight never looks stylish and it’s easier to get things taken in than out. Read the small print on the labels. Look for as high a concentration of natural fibres as you can find – they will invariably wear better and longer.
Small styling tricks bank a big return. There’s plenty of sophisticated sculptural jewellery at bargain prices right now, so stay away from the cheap-looking stones. Spend proportionately more on small items (eg belts) as they’ll add luxury to high-street finds.
The smaller items: Round-toe heeled ankle boots, ￡49.99, Mango; HEEYA chunky hoops, ￡6.98, Amazon; Scarf, ￡95, Jigsaw
Turn up collars, push up sleeves. Add some long leather gloves – they might be relatively pricey but they’ll make a Zara coat look so much more stylish. Slot a smart belt though those high-street loops. Polish cheaper leathers constantly to protect and add gloss. Roundish almond toes look current. Avoid cheap suedes and mix inexpensive ‘satin’ with wools, denim or velvet to knock back their shine.
Mix satin with wools: Uniqlo High-neck jumper, ￡14.90; Pure silk Long blouse, ￡ 79.00, M&S
Layer up basics (Arket and Muji do stylish tees and vests). To make them look more interesting: start with a white vest, add a simple shirt (could be M&S), then a loose blazer. Or style your own twinset with a tank and tonal cardie. Belt your blazer – this Hush one comes with its own. An elevating touch.
Winter coats: Cos belted coat, ￡225.00; Hush belted blazer, ￡89; Teddy Coat, ￡159, Hobbs
Finally, add flair with interesting knitwear or blouses. Vented hems, subtle asymmetry and scarf ties can all add attitude. S?ur has terrific knitwear and shirts in the vein of the more expensive Totême. Wyse, Winser London and Me+Em are good for silk blouses. Jigsaw is excellent across the board. Massimo Dutti is what Max Mara would be if it were a sixth of the price.
A bag from a small label with minimal marketing will have a lower mark up. Sézane’s tailoring is top notch. None of the latter are cheap… but ’tis sale time. Shop wisely.
Lisa solves your style dilemmas
Each week, Telegraph Head of Fashion Lisa Armstrong responds to your queries, lending her expertise to help you shop smart. Have a question for her? Submit it below.
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